9 July 2025 | 12:54 CAT
2-minute read

Benjamin Netanyahu looks on during a bilateral dinner with Donald Trump. Photograph: The Guardian/Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

As global pressure mounts to end the devastation in Gaza, fresh talks between former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have cast doubt over the sincerity of ceasefire negotiations. While the public framing suggests progress, analysts caution that the latest round of discussions — held in parallel with separate diplomatic engagements in Doha — may be little more than political theatre.

Seasoned South African diplomat and analyst Zeenat Adam described the current situation as one where “Netanyahu is still holding all of his cards,” refusing to compromise on key Palestinian demands.

According to Adam, the talks in Doha are not yet ceasefire negotiations in the true sense, but rather discussions on a framework that could lead to actual negotiations.

This delay in meaningful progress has real consequences on the ground, with Palestinians in Gaza facing relentless suffering. Adam pointed out the worsening humanitarian situation.

“From a humanitarian perspective, there’s been the targeted killing and starvation of people, the weaponisation of humanitarian aid.”

There had been some cautious optimism last week when a 60-day ceasefire proposal surfaced, apparently prompted by the brief but intense conflict between Israel and Iran and increased international calls for de-escalation. European governments have recently voiced stronger support for the recognition of a Palestinian state — yet the impact remains largely symbolic.

“Saying that doesn’t actually translate to it on the ground,” Adam warned. “What happens on the ground is that the occupation is perpetual.”

In the Doha meetings, Hamas is reportedly pushing for a comprehensive and lasting end to the war, not just a temporary ceasefire. But Israeli negotiators, still referring decisions back to Netanyahu, are reportedly unwilling to commit to a full military withdrawal from Gaza — a core demand for any long-term peace.

With Netanyahu continuing to promote plans for relocating Palestinians and effectively annexing the Gaza Strip, hopes for genuine diplomacy appear slim. Adam noted that what Israel offers resembles a puppet government rather than true sovereignty.

“They have no state apparatus except what is allowed by the occupation. That is not a state,” Adam observed.

As ceasefire hopes fade into extended procedural wrangling, Gaza’s civilian population remains trapped in an escalating humanitarian catastrophe — while the international community watches, pressures, and hesitates.

“May Allah make it easy for those suffering occupation, oppression, and genocide.”

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.